New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Suspension Following Positive Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding as part of a anti-doping examination carried out the same day he faced 11th-round loss versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Implications
Fabio Wardley together with Parker were part of a thrilling bout staged in the UK capital last October to determine the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger to unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker was previously the leading contender to challenge the champion after stringing together a notable six consecutive victories, yet placed his shot at the title in jeopardy during the bout and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination Along with Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination conducted on Parker through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout showed an adverse result which leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company released a statement stating: "The anti-doping body informed all required parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to an anti-doping test carried out on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no more comments are forthcoming currently."
Boxing Journey
Joseph Parker earned the title of titleholder back in 2016 until he was defeated for his championship belt through a points decision to Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.
Parker became a regular competitor on British soil from that point, having eight matches in total in the UK and relocating to Dublin for fight camps alongside highly regarded trainer former champion Lee in recent years.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his 2022 loss versus British heavyweight Joyce to achieve several successes that placed him front of the queue to meet Usyk until he was defeated against Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, a probe into the findings has been started.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The test was administered through Vada on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker now faces disciplinary action from the sport.
- His representatives has issued an announcement confirming the positive test.
- A review is currently in progress into the matter.
